Perez paints mural for Washtucna

WELCOME TO WASHTUCNA. The mural (right) on the former Central Lodge on Main Street in Washtucna was painted by local high school student Savannah Perez. The Washtucna Public Development Authority donated the paints and wood for Perez to use. She also received a $350 scholarship from the organization for her work. -Journal photo by Al Stover

People who travel down Main Street in Washtucna near Bassett Park, may notice a mural in a window of the former Central Lodge.

The mural is of a landscape of the upper hills near Palouse Falls with clouds and a sunrise in the background.

The words “Welcome to Washtucna gateway to Palouse Falls,” are at the top of the painting while “Bird Watching Haven–Bassett Park” is at the bottom.

The mural was painted by Washtucna High School Student Savannah Perez and unveiled on March 24.

Perez said the Washtucna Public Development Authority (PDA) had approached her last spring regarding the project. The PDA provided Perez with acrylic paint and the board to use for the mural.

PDA member Lora Hille explained said the organization is also awarding Perez a $350 scholarship for her effort on the project.

Perez said she began working on the mural last April and worked on it during her art class period, as well as throughout the summer. She said she used a photograph of Palouse Falls as a reference for the painting.

Perez said she has a passion for art, which started from her father and brother who are both artists.

During her time at the Washtucna School, Perez also took classes with art teacher Sherri Erickson.

Washtucna School District Superintendent Vance Wing described Perez as a “fantastic student,” who is focused, prepared, knows what she wants to do and has a passion for art.

Wing said Perez is someone who takes any opportunity to improve her skills.

“She’s a great addition to the school and we are proud of the work she has done,” Wing added.

Perez previously designed the logo for the Town of Washtucna and has painted the windows of Sonny’s Family Restaurant during the holidays.

While Perez has been drawing and painting for many years, the mural the first big project she had undertaken.

She said the task was intimidating at first and she wanted to put her best effort into the project.

Perez still needs to put touch up some points on the painting, but Hille said the PDA is delighted with how the mural turned out.

Perez said she felt good about receiving the positive feedback for her work on the mural, so much so that it has inspired her to undertake similar projects in the future.

She is also thankful for the support from the community regarding the project.

As for her future, Perez said she wants to study art and graphic design in college, and eventually pursue a career in animation.